Keep Android Open 🔓
Android will become a locked-down platform in less than 200 days.
📢 The Situation
In August 2025, Google announced that as of September 2026, it will no longer be possible to develop apps for the Android platform without first registering centrally with Google. This registration will involve:
- Paying a fee to Google
- Agreeing to Google's Terms and Conditions
- Providing government identification
- Uploading evidence of the developer's private signing key
- Listing all current and future application identifiers
⚠️ What This Means For You
You will no longer be able to choose what software you run on your phone. You will be forced only to use apps that Google has deemed okay for you to install.
Creators / developers will no longer be able to make or share apps without first seeking the permission of Google, which will vastly limit the amount of good apps that exist, similar to Apple's ecosystem.
How You Can Help
Developers: Resist and Refuse
Do not sign up for the early access program, perform identity verification, or accept an invitation to the Android Developer Console. Respond (politely) to any invitation with your concerns and objections.
Discourage fellow developers from signing up. Use community forums, social media, and blog posts to spread the message.
Install F-Droid
Install F-Droid on your Android device(s) (or similar FOSS installers). The more people that use alternative app marketplaces, the harder it will be to shut them out.
Visit F-Droid →Make Your Voice Heard
Provide feedback directly to Google using their Android developer verification requirements survey. Make your voice heard on social media and with blog posts, and link to keepandroidopen.org
Sign the Petition
Add your voice to the change.org petition demanding Google reconsider this anti-competitive policy.
Sign Petition →Contact Regulators
Regulators worldwide are concerned about monopolies and centralization of power. Contact them politely and specifically about the harm these policies will cause.
Request a written acknowledgement of the complaint, and forward responses to victory@keepandroidopen.org
Combat Astroturfing
When you encounter suspect posts in support of the policy ("Well, actually..."), challenge them and do not be shy. Help spread accurate information.
📧 For Google Insiders
If you are a Google employee or contractor of good conscience and have additional insight about the program, please reach out to tips@keepandroidopen.org from a non-work machine and a non-gmail account. Your information will be kept in strict confidence.